Graduation ceremonies in South Korea are significant milestones marked by formal academic regalia. Understanding the dress code—from gown colors and hood designs to cap styles—is essential for participants and families. This guide explains the traditions, regulations, and practical options for Korean graduation attire, including rental services and purchase prices.

Overview of Korean Graduation Ceremonies

Korean graduations typically occur in February (for elementary, middle, and high schools) and late February to early March for universities. Ceremonies follow a structured format: opening remarks, award presentations, conferral of degrees, and closing. Participants are expected to wear academic gowns (gab-ro), hoods (fuk), and caps (mo-ja) that denote their institution and level of study. Schools often provide specific guidelines, but students may arrange their own attire through rental shops or purchase.

Key Components of Academic Regalia

  • Gown (가운): Typically black for most institutions, but some universities use colored gowns for specific colleges or honors programs. Gowns are usually made of polyester or a polyester-wool blend, with lengths varying from knee-length for associate degrees to full-length for doctoral programs.
  • Hood (후드): Worn over the gown, the hood’s lining color represents the academic discipline (e.g., blue for science, white for arts). The velvet trim indicates the degree level (e.g., 2 inches for bachelor’s, 4 inches for master’s, 5 inches for doctoral).
  • Cap (모자): The traditional mortarboard (square cap) with a tassel. The tassel is worn on the right side initially and moved to the left upon conferral. Some institutions use a tam (beret-style cap) for doctoral graduates.
  • Additional Items: Honor cords, stoles, and medals for academic achievements or extracurricular participation. These are often provided by the school or honor societies.

Graduation Gown Rental Services

Renting a graduation gown is common in Korea, especially for university students who may not want to purchase an expensive outfit. Rental shops are concentrated near major universities, such as Seoul National University (SNU), Yonsei University, and Korea University. Prices vary by quality and package:

  • Basic gown + cap + hood: ₩30,000–₩50,000 for a 3-day rental.
  • Premium package (including stole, cord, and photography props): ₩60,000–₩100,000.
  • Doctoral regalia rental: ₩80,000–₩150,000 due to more elaborate hoods and gowns.

Many rental services offer online reservation and delivery. For a detailed list of rental options, see our Graduation Gown Rental Guide.

Where to Rent

  • Online rental platforms: Sites like GraduationGown.kr, GabRoRental.com offer nationwide delivery.
  • Local rental shops: Near Hongdae, Sinchon, and Daehangno districts in Seoul.
  • University-affiliated rental services: Some schools have partnerships with specific vendors; check your school’s notice board.

Purchase Options for Academic Regalia

Buying a graduation gown is less common but preferred by those who want a keepsake or need to wear it for multiple events (e.g., convocation, photo shoots). Prices for a standard bachelor’s set (gown, cap, hood) range from ₩80,000 to ₩150,000. Higher-quality fabrics (e.g., wool blend) can cost ₩200,000–₩350,000. Doctoral regalia is more expensive, often ₩400,000–₩600,000.

Retailers include:

  • Academic regalia specialty stores: E.g., Seoul Academic Wear (서울학술복) in Jongno-gu, and Gown House (가운하우스) in Gangnam.
  • Online marketplaces: Coupang, Gmarket, and 11st offer various price points.
  • Custom tailors: For personalized fit, especially for doctoral robes.

If you plan to attend multiple ceremonies (e.g., undergraduate and graduate), buying may be cost-effective. For one-time use, renting is recommended.

Dress Code Expectations for Graduates

Beyond the gown, graduates are expected to follow a dress code for the ceremony. The general rule is business formal or semi-formal attire under the gown.

For Men

  • Shirt: White or light-colored dress shirt with a collar. French cuffs are optional.
  • Tie/Bow tie: Solid color or subtle pattern. Many graduates opt for a necktie in the school color. For a complete guide on formal wear, see our Complete Guide to Tuxedos and Suits in Korea.
  • Pants: Dark dress trousers (black, navy, or charcoal). Jeans or chinos are not acceptable.
  • Shoes: Black leather dress shoes (oxfords or derbies). No sneakers or loafers.
  • Suit jacket: Optional; if worn, it should match the trousers. However, the gown may cover it, so a well-fitted shirt and trousers suffice.

For Women

  • Top: White blouse or collared shirt. Avoid low necklines or sleeveless styles.
  • Skirt or pants: Knee-length skirt or tailored trousers. Pantsuits are acceptable.
  • Shoes: Closed-toe heels (3–5 cm) or flats. Open-toe shoes are generally discouraged.
  • Accessories: Minimal jewelry; small earrings and a simple necklace. No large hats or headpieces that interfere with the cap.

Additional Tips

  • Nails and makeup: Natural tones are preferred. Avoid bright lipstick or nail polish.
  • Hairstyle: Hair should be neat and not cover the face. The cap must sit securely.
  • Undergarments: Ensure no visible straps or lines. Nude or white undergarments are safest.

Special Considerations for Different Degree Levels

Associate and Bachelor’s Degrees

Gowns are typically black with open fronts. The hood is shorter and less ornate. Caps are standard mortarboards. Honor cords may be worn for cum laude distinctions.

Master’s Degrees

Gowns may have longer sleeves with distinctive slits. The hood is larger with a wider velvet border. Some universities allow master’s graduates to wear a tam cap instead of a mortarboard.

Doctoral Degrees

Doctoral regalia is the most elaborate. Gowns are often full-length with velvet panels down the front. The hood is large and lined with the university’s colors. The cap is typically a tam (round, soft cap) with a gold tassel. Many doctoral graduates also wear a stole or medallion representing their field.

Cultural Etiquette and Customs

Korean graduation ceremonies are formal but also celebratory. Families often present flowers and gifts. Photographs are taken before and after the ceremony. It is customary to bow to professors and family members.

  • Arrival time: Graduates should arrive at least 30 minutes early for gowning and seating.
  • Behavior: Remain seated during speeches; no loud talking or phone use.
  • Tassel ceremony: At the moment of conferral, the tassel is moved from right to left. This is a key photo opportunity.
  • Post-ceremony: Many graduates attend a celebratory meal with family. Some schools have separate receptions.

For those attending a Doljanchi or other family events around graduation, similar formal attire is appropriate.

Graduation Photography and Gown Care

Professional photography is popular in Korea. Studios offer graduation-themed packages with props and backdrops. Prices range from ₩50,000 to ₩200,000 for a set of prints. For more advice, see our Tips for Great Graduation Photos in Your Gown.

Tips for Great Photos

  • Wear the gown properly: the hem should fall just above the ankle.
  • Adjust the hood so the velvet trim is visible.
  • Hold the cap at a slight angle; do not wear it too far back.
  • Bring a friend to help with gown adjustments.

Gown Care

If renting, return the gown as received (clean and pressed). If purchasing, store the gown in a garment bag. For cleaning, dry cleaning is recommended. Do not iron directly on velvet or satin trims.

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